Crying
A student who cries may...
- display emotional lability
- be moody
- be emotional over "small" things like a lost place in line, the wrong answer, or new information
- put their head down
- give up easily
- have trouble regulating their response
- decline comforting/ask to be left alone
- talk to themselves--repeating a phrase over and over
- engage in negative self-talk ("I can't do this")
- cover their face
* There are many, many reasons and events that could lead to crying in the classroom. Try to ascertain the concern, to help target strategies and interventions
When supporting a student who is crying, some general strategies involve
- create a natural break for the class (distraction)
- mindful moments of deep breathing
- draw or write in a journal
- speak in a calm and neutral tone
- reduce immediate demand or information
- use reflective listening
Interventions may include
- a calm space in the classroom
- send the student on a purposeful movement break
- speak with the student privately
- fidgets
- listen to music
- seek input from the parent about triggers
- social stories to address areas of concern
- purposeful partnering
- avoid competitive situations
- schedule an alternative activity for the child during times when triggers will occur (i.e., passing back quiz scores)
- teach them a lacking skill
Literature Links
My Many Colored Days by Dr. Suess
How Are you Peeling by Saxton Freeman
A Teaspoon of Courage for Kids by Bradley Trevor Greive
Oh My Baby Little One by Kathi Appelt
Happy Dreamer by Peter Reynolds
Hugs from Pearl by Paul Schmid
Jack's Worry by Sam Zuppardi
What do you do with a Problem by Kobi Yamada
Sam, The Most Scaredy Cat Kid in the Whole World by Mo Willems
Teacher Readings